Ethiopia recently marked a significant milestone, celebrating the 116th founding anniversary of the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF) with a grand military parade and a display of the cutting-edge Russian-made 1RL257 Krasukha-4 electronic warfare (EW) system.
This event demonstrated the nation’s commitment to bolstering its military capabilities and illuminated the vital role of electronic warfare in modern conflicts.
Ethiopia’s 116th Defense Force Anniversary
The anniversary celebration, which took place at the iconic Meskel Square in the capital, Addis Ababa, was a spectacular display of Ethiopia’s military prowess.
The event featured a grand military parade, complete with a marching band orchestra, patriotic songs, and performances, and was attended by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, government officials, and military dignitaries.
Our Defense Force is the backbone of our nation's security, working tirelessly to safeguard our freedoms and protect us from harm. They embody patriotism and dedication, and we are forever grateful for their service
Ethiopia recently marked a significant milestone, celebrating the 116th founding anniversary of the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF) with a grand military parade and a display of the cutting-edge Russian-made 1RL257 Krasukha-4 electronic warfare (EW) system.
This event demonstrated the nation’s commitment to bolstering its military capabilities and illuminated the vital role of electronic warfare in modern conflicts.
Ethiopia’s 116th Defense Force Anniversary
The anniversary celebration, which took place at the iconic Meskel Square in the capital, Addis Ababa, was a spectacular display of Ethiopia’s military prowess.
The event featured a grand military parade, complete with a marching band orchestra, patriotic songs, and performances, and was attended by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, government officials, and military dignitaries.
Our Defense Force is the backbone of our nation's security, working tirelessly to safeguard our freedoms and protect us from harm. They embody patriotism and dedication, and we are forever grateful for their service
However, the highlight of the military parade was the debut of the Krasukha-4 electronic warfare EW system, which underlined Ethiopia’s ongoing efforts to enhance its defense capabilities.
Electronic warfare plays a pivotal, albeit invisible, role in modern warfare.
It involves using technology to control the electromagnetic spectrum, protecting a military’s communication and sensing systems while disrupting enemy electronic devices. This capability is vital in gaining the upper hand on the battlefield.
In 2021, Ethiopia and Russia signed a significant military cooperation agreement after three days of deliberation during a military-technical cooperation forum held in Addis Ababa.
As part of this agreement, Russia supplied a range of military equipment to the Ethiopian National Defense Force, including the Russian-built EW system.
1RL257 Krasukha-4: A Formidable Defense System
The Krasukha-4 is a formidable electronic warfare system of Russian origin. It is designed to neutralize various threats, including Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) spy satellites, ground-based radars, and airborne radars such as Airborne Warning And Control Systems (AWACS), at ranges spanning 150 to 300 kilometers.
Ethiopia recently unveiled its state-of-the-art weaponry and defense systems during a military parade for the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF), including the introduction of the Krasukha-4 electronic warfare (EW) system of Russian origin as a new addition to its arsenal. pic.twitter.com/91WRRrsFm9
This system is also equipped to disrupt the enemy’s EW systems and communications, making it an invaluable asset on the battlefield.
The Krasukha-4 is mounted on a Kamaz 6350 8×8 military truck chassis, powered by a KamAZ-740.50-360 diesel engine that can produce 360 horsepower. This robust vehicle can reach a maximum speed of 95 km/h and has a broad range of up to 1,000 kilometers.
Its design allows it to ford at depths of up to 1.75 meters.
The system is structured as a two-part system, with an EW system and a command post module installed on separate trucks.
Developed by Concern Radio-Electronic Technologies (KRET), a subsidiary of the Russian state group Rostec, this system has been in operation for over a decade and is known for manufacturing specialized military products.
The Krasukha-4’s operational range of 186 miles is particularly impressive.
It excels at targeting radio-electronic systems, including those on airborne platforms like unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and missile systems. Its capabilities extend to countering AWACS, drones, and spy satellites.
This multifaceted mobile system is also deployed to disrupt large ground-based radars and shield Russian assets from surveillance systems.
Strengthening Ethiopia’s Military Arsenal
Ethiopia has been actively enhancing its military capabilities through acquisitions from various countries, including China, Israel, and Russia.
These acquisitions have included state-of-the-art Russian-made Pantsir-S2 air defense systems and Ukrainian ST-68UM radar stations.
In addition, Ethiopia has procured air defense systems like the Israeli Skylock counter-UAS solution to enhance its readiness and protect critical projects such as the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD).
The government’s commitment to strengthening its military assets and strategic weapons, including artillery, rocket systems, and drones, reflects its dedication to maintaining readiness in the face of regional challenges and crises.
As Ethiopia celebrated the 116th anniversary of its National Defense Force, the display of the Krasukha-4 system symbolized the country’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding its interests and protecting its future endeavors in the face of evolving threats.
The system’s advanced jamming capabilities and versatile range of applications make it a substantial addition to Ethiopia’s defense arsenal, particularly amid rising geopolitical tensions concerning the GERD.
The Ukraine Invasion: A Lesson in Electronic Warfare
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine serves as a stark reminder of the impact electronic warfare can have in shaping the course of a war.
However, it’s crucial to note that effective electronic warfare must operate in tandem with airpower or satellite-guided drones to maximize its potential on the battlefield.
Ethiopia’s dedication to enhancing its EW capabilities aligns with its broader strategy to fortify its defense forces and ensure national security in an ever-changing geopolitical landscape. The display of the Russian-built during the anniversary celebration is just among Addis Ababa’s efforts to protect its interests and secure its future, especially in an increasingly unstable region and neighborhood, as well as its steady relations with Moscow.
—
Disclaimer: SOFREP utilizes AI for image generation and article research. Occasionally, it’s like handing a chimpanzee the keys to your liquor cabinet. It’s not always perfect and if a mistake is made, we own up to it full stop. In a world where information comes at us in tidal waves, it is an important tool that helps us sift through the brass for live rounds.
As someone who’s seen what happens when the truth is distorted, I know how unfair it feels when those who’ve sacrificed the most lose their voice. At SOFREP, our veteran journalists, who once fought for freedom, now fight to bring you unfiltered, real-world intel. But without your support, we risk losing this vital source of truth. By subscribing, you’re not just leveling the playing field—you’re standing with those who’ve already given so much, ensuring they continue to serve by delivering stories that matter. Every subscription means we can hire more veterans and keep their hard-earned knowledge in the fight. Don’t let their voices be silenced. Please consider subscribing now.
One team, one fight,
Brandon Webb former Navy SEAL, Bestselling Author and Editor-in-Chief
Barrett is the world leader in long-range, large-caliber, precision rifle design and manufacturing. Barrett products are used by civilians, sport shooters, law enforcement agencies, the United States military, and more than 75 State Department-approved countries around the world.
PO Box 1077 MURFREESBORO, Tennessee 37133 United States
Scrubba Wash Bag
Our ultra-portable washing machine makes your journey easier. This convenient, pocket-sized travel companion allows you to travel lighter while helping you save money, time and water.
Our roots in shooting sports started off back in 1996 with our founder and CEO, Josh Ungier. His love of airguns took hold of our company from day one and we became the first e-commerce retailer dedicated to airguns, optics, ammo, and accessories. Over the next 25 years, customers turned to us for our unmatched product selection, great advice, education, and continued support of the sport and airgun industry.
COMMENTS
There are
You must become a subscriber or login to view or post comments on this article.